Lewis Structure; Non-bonding pair missing

In summary, the total number of valence electrons in SOCl2 is 26, which implies three bonds with the central atom sulfur. However, the teacher's solution shows only 24 electrons, indicating a missing non-bonding pair on sulfur. The correct answer is that there should be a pair of non-bonding electrons on sulfur.
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Homework Statement



http://i.minus.com/jxoYt94CAd9LY.png

Homework Equations



The total number of valence electrons in SOCl2 is 6 + 6 + 7(2) or 26 valence electrons. Dividing by 8, this implies a total of three bonds formed with the central atom (the least electronegative atom, or sulfur).

The Attempt at a Solution



However, in my teacher's solution, there appear to only be 24 electrons total. Sulfur seems to be missing an non-bonding pair of electrons.

Am I correct that there should be a pair of non-bonding electrons on sulfur?
 
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  • #2
Yes, indeed. The Sulphur atom has 10 electrons in the vecinity of the nucleus+first shell.
 

1. What is a Lewis Structure?

A Lewis Structure is a diagram that represents the arrangement of atoms and electrons in a molecule. It is used to predict the shape and properties of a molecule.

2. How do you draw a Lewis Structure?

To draw a Lewis Structure, you first need to determine the total number of valence electrons for all the atoms in the molecule. Then, you place the atoms in a way that satisfies the octet rule (except for hydrogen which only needs 2 valence electrons). Finally, you fill in the remaining electrons to complete the octet for each atom.

3. What does it mean when a non-bonding pair is missing in a Lewis Structure?

A non-bonding pair, also known as a lone pair, is an electron pair that is not involved in a chemical bond. When it is missing in a Lewis Structure, it means that the molecule has an odd number of valence electrons, which is not common in most stable molecules.

4. What is the significance of a missing non-bonding pair in a Lewis Structure?

A missing non-bonding pair in a Lewis Structure can indicate that the molecule is either unstable or a radical. It can also affect the shape and properties of the molecule, as the lone pair electrons play a role in determining the molecular geometry.

5. Can a molecule have more than one missing non-bonding pair in its Lewis Structure?

Yes, a molecule can have more than one missing non-bonding pair in its Lewis Structure. This can happen when the molecule has an odd number of valence electrons or when there are multiple atoms that do not follow the octet rule, such as boron and sulfur.

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